Page 140 - Star Wars Insider (Special Edition 2019)

LEIA ORGANA

09

Self-Rescuing
Princess

The escape from the Death
Star detention block is one
of Star Wars’ most iconic
scenes. From Han’s awkward
conversation with Imperials to
Luke’s breathless introduction
as he bursts into Leia’s cell, the
rescuers seem to be in over their
heads. But the prisoner remains
calmly acerbic, with Leia coolly
declaring Luke “a little short for
a stormtrooper,” and critiquing
the lack of an escape plan even

as she gratefully flees with her
rescuers.

This is the first time that Leia,
Luke, and Han are all together,
and they quickly fall into their
familiar roles. The rebel leader
Leia takes charge, snatching
Luke’s blaster and fi ring across a sense of structure and tradition
question Leia’s actions (even 08 in a galaxy that the Empire would
the hall to a spot right next to
Han. Han shows his trademark
incredulity as she explains:
remake as new. In storytelling
terms, her presence on the dais
“Someone has to save our skins.
Into the garbage chute, fl yboy!”
reminds us just how important
Luke is the only one not to
after the destruction of her home
planet, Alderaan.
Chewie has his doubts), acting she is to the Rebel Alliance, even
on youthful, reckless bravery, Of course, in this moment
and perhaps already feeling Yavin Medal we are not invited to remember
a bond of trust with Leia. Alderaan: it is a scene of triumph,
Ceremony and—in a way—the best tribute
the atomized planet could have.
Leia does many awesome Life finds a way, and the young,

things over the course of A New vivacious princess fl irting with
Hope, but in keeping with her two handsome men represents

selflessness, she doesn’t give herself the fun, romantic spirit that the
an award at the end of it. When Empire simply cannot quash, even
she presents medals to Luke and with a superlaser. Leia has a new

Han, she does so as a princess and outfit and new hair, the assembled
a symbol of something greater. She audience is huge, the medals are

has responsibilities beyond those magnificent, and the music is
of other rebel fighters, and must rousing. It is a lavish, uplifting

stand apart from time to time. scene that makes the heart soar
The pomp of her role provides and imaginations run wild.

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